The Gargoyle (Zana Fraillon, illus Ross Morgan, Lothian)

From critically acclaimed author Zana Fraillon and fine artist and illustrator Ross Morgan, The Gargoyle is a picture book that leaves a lasting impression of hope and kindness for our world and all its beings, whether lost, found, old or otherwise. Lyrically sensational, this picture book combines words and striking artwork that meld seamlessly, like a gushing cityscape from a moving train. An old and weary gargoyle is forced off his rooftop and shuffles into a sea of unhelpful train passengers with his heavy suitcase. However, amid the crowd, a boy holds the key to restoring the ageing gargoyle’s faith and memories of a city that can and will be full of life again. Deep crimson, navy and gold with fine lines set against scarce and misty painted cityscape textures capture the poignancy perfectly. When the gargoyle leaves the crumbling case with the child, colourfully iridescent bubbles burst out, revealing the gargoyle’s visual memories of dancing, dreaming, and hopeful moments, signalling the messages of compassion, passing time and environmental change. An exquisite legacy, The Gargoyle will permeate the hearts and souls of readers and conservationists for generations to come.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Romi Sharp is a picture book writer and digital marketer for children’s authors and publishers. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Category: Reviews